Understanding the Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship Programme

The University of Strathclyde offers a significant opportunity for aspiring leaders through its Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship Programme (SYGL). This scholarship is designed to support exceptional students pursuing a full-time MBA or MSc at the Strathclyde Business School in Glasgow, Scotland. Funded by a substantial donation from the Charles Huang Foundation, the SYGL programme aims to cultivate the next generation of global business and societal leaders. It goes beyond simply covering educational costs, providing a holistic development experience that includes mentorship, leadership coaching, and international exposure. Applications are open for the September 2026 intake, presenting a chance for ambitious individuals to advance their careers and leadership potential.

About the Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship Programme

The Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship Programme was established to honor Professor Stephen Young, a former Head of the Department of Marketing at Strathclyde Business School. Professor Young was a mentor to Dr. Charles Huang, a distinguished alumnus of the university who earned both an MBA and a PhD in Marketing from Strathclyde. Dr. Huang, now the Founder and Chairman of Pasaca Capital Inc., a global private equity firm, initiated this scholarship through the Charles Huang Foundation. His aim is to inspire and support future leaders who are ethical and globally minded, contributing to positive change in business and society.

What the Scholarship Covers

The SYGL Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity that provides comprehensive support for both academic and leadership development. Successful scholars receive full tuition coverage for their MBA or MSc program at Strathclyde Business School. Additionally, a living cost stipend is provided to help cover expenses throughout the academic year in Glasgow. Beyond financial aid, the program offers tailored mentorship from senior business leaders, CEOs, and industry executives, along with personal guidance focused on career goals and leadership growth.

Enhanced Leadership Development Opportunities

Through the Stephen Young Institute of International Business (SYIIB), scholars gain access to a range of development opportunities. These include specialized leadership training, valuable networking events with professionals and global business leaders, and engagement in research initiatives. The program also facilitates international development experiences, allowing scholars to broaden their perspectives and gain global insights. Membership in the SYIIB community further connects recipients with a network of peers, professionals, and established leaders.

Additional Global Leadership Opportunities

Selected scholars may also have the chance to participate in exclusive international and professional development experiences. These can include international summer school placements at strategic partner universities worldwide, with support for flights and accommodation. Scholars might also be involved in special research projects coordinated by the SYIIB. For MBA scholars, there are opportunities to attend elective classes at Strathclyde’s international MBA centers located in Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East, with travel and accommodation support provided.

Why This Scholarship Stands Out

The SYGL Programme distinguishes itself from traditional scholarships by functioning as a comprehensive leadership development initiative. It is specifically designed to prepare students for success in a dynamic global environment. The program emphasizes the development of ethical leadership, responsible business practices, and sustainability-oriented decision-making. It also focuses on fostering global strategic thinking, collaborative leadership skills, and the ability to adapt and innovate. The University’s goal is to produce leaders capable of driving significant positive change within their respective fields and in society at large.

Number of Scholarships Available and Duration

The University of Strathclyde plans to award up to five Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarships annually. This limited number makes the program highly competitive and prestigious. The scholarship is tenable for one academic year, supporting full-time study. The program commences in September 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland.

Eligible Degree Programmes

The scholarship supports postgraduate taught programs within the Strathclyde Business School. This includes the MBA program, as well as specialized MSc degrees in areas such as Accounting & Finance, Business, Data Analytics, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Management, Management Science, and Marketing.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and personal requirements.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet the admission criteria for a full-time MBA or MSc program at Strathclyde Business School. They should demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, typically holding a first-class undergraduate degree or its international equivalent.

Funding Requirements

A key requirement is that applicants must be self-funded students. They should not have corporate sponsorship or be receiving other scholarship funding. This ensures the scholarship supports individuals who genuinely need financial assistance to pursue their postgraduate studies and leadership development.

Leadership and Values

Candidates are expected to exhibit strong leadership potential and a commitment to responsible leadership principles. Their values should align with diversity, inclusion, and making a global impact. Aspirations to create meaningful societal or business change are also important qualities sought in applicants.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Strathclyde actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups. This includes individuals from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities, women, LGBT+ candidates, disabled candidates, and applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds. The program is committed to fostering diversity and promoting inclusive leadership development.

Selection Process

The scholarship selection process involves several stages to identify the most suitable candidates.

Stage 1: Online Application

The initial step requires applicants to submit a CV, essay responses, and a completed online application form.

Stage 2: Shortlisting

Applications are carefully reviewed by a panel from Strathclyde Business School.

Stage 3: Final Selection

A dedicated Selection Committee evaluates the shortlisted candidates.

Stage 4: Interviews

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend interviews, which can be conducted virtually or in person. These interviews are anticipated to take place toward the end of June 2026.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare specific documents for their submission.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

The CV must be submitted using the required naming format: “Forename_Lastname_SYGL_CV.docx”.

Essay Responses

Applicants need to download the official essay questions, complete their responses, and save them using the format: “Forename_Lastname_SYGL_ESSAY.docx”.

Online Application Form

The final component is the online application form, which can be accessed through the university’s scholarship portal.

Important Dates

Prospective applicants should note the following key dates for the 2026 intake.

Scholarship Opens

Applications for the scholarship opened on May 11, 2026.

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting scholarship applications is May 31, 2026.

Interviews

Interviews for shortlisted candidates are expected to occur at the end of June 2026.

Programme Start

The academic program and scholarship period begin in September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions